Zimbabwe Collaborates with IOM to Rescue Stranded Citizens in Sierra Leone
The Zimbabwean Government, in partnership with the IOM, is repatriating over 20 citizens stranded in Sierra Leone due to human trafficking. Following recent returnees and alarming reports, authorities emphasize education and regulation of recruitment agencies against trafficking. Plans to sign agreements with Middle Eastern countries aim to combat these issues collaboratively, while efforts continue to raise public awareness and ensure safety for citizens abroad.
The Government of Zimbabwe has initiated a collaboration with the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to facilitate the repatriation of over 20 Zimbabweans stranded in Sierra Leone, who fell victim to a human trafficking network promising false job opportunities. This partnership is part of the Government’s broader strategy to regulate recruitment agencies and raise public awareness regarding the perils of human trafficking. Recent investigations revealed that local and foreign entities are involved in the trafficking ring, deceiving individuals into precarious situations.
In the past week, two survivors of this trafficking syndicate returned to Zimbabwe and are currently under protective custody, where they disclosed that numerous others remain trapped in Sierra Leone. According to Public Service, Labour, and Social Welfare Minister July Moyo, the Government has mobilized resources through the IOM to assist with the victims’ return. “Our people were recruited there and they are being abused. While some have returned home, we still have others who are still out there,” he stated.
Minister Moyo further mentioned a similar case involving Zimbabweans in Kuwait, emphasizing the need for international cooperation to combat human trafficking. The Government is exploring agreements akin to those established by Ethiopia and Kenya with Middle Eastern countries to bolster efforts against trafficking, which poses significant risks to citizens seeking employment through informal channels.
In light of these challenges, the Zimbabwean Government has focused on educating its citizens about the risks associated with irregular migration and human trafficking. Measures are being implemented to regulate recruitment agencies and increase public awareness to mitigate exploitation. The Minister reiterated the importance of collaboration with international organizations like the IOM to effectively repatriate victims and reinforce preventive measures against trafficking incidents.
In addition to the two recent returnees, seven more citizens were reported to have returned home last month, with estimates suggesting that up to 40 individuals may be victims of the ongoing trafficking syndicate in Sierra Leone. The Government remains committed to addressing these issues in partnership with international entities to uphold the safety and well-being of its citizens abroad.
The topic of human trafficking has gained prominence due to the increasing number of individuals falling prey to syndicates that exploit the pursuit of better economic opportunities. Many victims are deceived by false promises of employment, often resulting in situations of exploitation and abuse. Countries like Zimbabwe are responding to this crisis by collaborating with organizations such as the International Organisation for Migration (IOM) to develop strategies that include educating citizens about the risks of irregular migration, regulating recruitment agencies, and establishing international agreements to combat trafficking effectively.
The partnership between the Government of Zimbabwe and the IOM represents a critical step towards safeguarding citizens against the perils of human trafficking. By focusing on education, regulation, and international cooperation, the Government aims to prevent future exploitation while facilitating the return of victims. This multi-faceted approach underscores a commitment to ensuring the well-being of Zimbabweans abroad and reflects a proactive stance against human trafficking syndicates.
Original Source: bulawayo24.com
